Do I need a Tetanus shot?!
Question:
Do I need a Tetanus shot?
I accidentally stepped on my daughter's tiara yesterday resulting in the comb teeth puncturing into my foot. My foot is sore and starting to swell. I am becoming concerned.
Answers:
Dont bother...a tetanus shot now WILL NOT help you for the current injury. You are either protected b/c of a past shot (hopefully within the past 10 yrs) or are at the mercy of the bacteria at this point. For a tetanus shot to be effective for a new injury it MUST be administered in the first 24-36 hrs after the puncture wound. For right now, look for the signs and symptoms of tetanus, which in most cases begins with locking of the jaw. If that happens, rush to the ER.